When I called customer service about my machine, one of the things they said is I should only use Singer needles in my machine. Okay, maybe, but I've been using the Schmetz without problems. So is really an issue, or do they just always recommend Singer products
Mary

I had heard singer needles are slightly longer- at least I was told to never use them in a machine that doesn't call for them. I'm not sure if using a shorter needle would make a difference as much as using one too long- but maybe it won't pick up the bobbin thread as well?

Never had a problem with any brand of needle — Singer, Schmetz, Organ, Orange — all have worked fine for me. That said, Schmetz offers more specialty needles should you need them. I've seen Orange needles used most often in the industry itself, mostly because they make a huge variety of needles to fit industrial machines.

Are Schmetz needles actually better quality than other brands? Not necessarily. Singer needles are just fine. Some machine manufacturers would like you to believe that their machines work best with certain brands of needles, but I've never had problems with Orange or Singer needles in a Bernina either.

I assume you are talking about a regular sewing machine? I don't think there is a difference except maybe if you are selling Singer sewing machines; then selling Singer needles would make sense. I have Singer and Schemtz in my sewing box right now. I use to always buy Singer-now I buy Schemtz-they have sharps which I am really liking. Singer only has Universals which is ok but not great on some fabrics. I buy my needles on sale at JoAnns or Hancocks-I think they are sale this weekend! -- Edited on 8/31/12 10:03 PM --

Oh yes, it's a regular sewing machine, not a serger. I have a lot of Schmetz needles, so if I don't need to switch, I'm not going to. They've been sewing fine for me, so I don't see the problem if it's not going to make a difference.
Mary

I use Schmetz or Organ in all of my machines, of any brand. Singer's are just cheap badged needles made by whoever submitted the lowest bid. The fact that they are longer shouldn't be a problem unless the tip actually hits something. The crucial measurement on a needle, the timing length, is the distance from the top of the shank to the eye. If that distance is not correct for a machine, it will be unable to form stitches, but no damage will ever be incurred unless the pointy end hits something.

Manufacturers have been recommending their own branded needles ever since the first sewing machine was sold to a marvelling consumer. It has always been a marketing tactic, never a quality concern.

As long as it's not a Singer serger, you should be fine with any needle in your machine. I've used Organ, Orange, and Schmetz, along with Singer. The Schmetz last longer and don't break apart as easily as the Organ or Orange; I've been using them for about 20 years now, even in my vintage Singers.

------"Play the cards you are dealt, but choose who is sitting at the table"..AARP magazine

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